Piston ring compressor?

I am ready to put my KZ1100 back together after getting the new rings installed. I tried the old poke and feelie to get the rings in the cylinders but they just will not go. Does anyone sell a ring compressor that will work on these pistons from the bottom? I don't think I can afford one of the gang of 4 compressor that is called for in the manual. Thanks....chris3

Did you hold all 4 of the pistons at the same hight?
I use 2 dal rods slid under the pistons. It's always worked for me.
Some guys use coat hanger wire bent straight

XENU.

I put two one inch plastic pipe under the two inside pistons, then do them, then do the two outer pistons. I have done this successfully many times but this time it is not working. I saw a compressor that came apart for use in this application but it was quite a while ago and I forgot where I saw it......chris3

I found it best to hold all 4 pistons at the time+hight.
I don't use any lub till pistons are in the hole.
I had a gang ring compressor about 20 years ago, sold it. To much ***** around.

coppertales wrote:

I put two one inch plastic pipe under the two inside pistons, then do them, then do the two outer pistons. I have done this successfully many times but this time it is not working. I saw a compressor that came apart for use in this application but it was quite a while ago and I forgot where I saw it......chris3

Clymers recommends using large hose clamps. JC Whitney sells the clamps I used on mine (wrap around and hook on the clamp pliers), but I think you have to do the middle two first. You have to make something to put under the pots to prop them up as you tap the cylinder down. I used some wood paint stir sticks cut to length and taped in a stack for props.

coppertales wrote:

I am ready to put my KZ1100 back together after getting the new rings installed. I tried the old poke and feelie to get the rings in the cylinders but they just will not go....

(You'll have to forgive this question :lol: ) --
Before installing the rings onto the pistons, were the rings first test-fitted inside the bores for proper end-gap?

hose clamps worked great for me!

ring gap is ok........I will try the hose clamp idea. I am going to polish the bevel at the bottom of the cylinders too.....thanks guys....chris3

coppertales wrote:

ring gap is ok........I will try the hose clamp idea. I am going to polish the bevel at the bottom of the cylinders too.....thanks guys....chris3

I'd polish the inside surface of the clamps with some #400 paper and lightly oil them to help them slip past the rings.